Iraola calls for more wingers at Liverpool

Liverpool's Spanish head coach Andoni Iraola and his players showed appreciation to fans after a pre-season friendly against Monaco at Anfield in Liverpool on August 9, 2026. (Photo by Darren Staples / AFP)

Andoni Iraola says Liverpool need to sign more wingers as they adjust to life without Egyptian star Mohamed Salah.

Iraola will lead his first Premier League game as Liverpool manager against Newcastle on Sunday. He came from Bournemouth to replace the sacked Arne Slot during the off-season.

This match at St James’ Park also marks Liverpool’s first season without Salah since 2016-17.

Salah moved to Turkish club Trabzonspor earlier in August. His exit ends an incredible Anfield career where he scored 257 goals and won many trophies, including the Premier League and Champions League titles.

With Hugo Ekitike injured and questions surrounding Cody Gakpo’s future at Liverpool, Iraola has few options to support Alexander Isak in attack.

The Reds signed Victor Munoz in the summer and have Federico Chiesa and teenager Rio Ngumoha, but Iraola wants to add more players on the wings.

“In terms of what we need, there are certain situations that, for me, are clear, especially on the wing because we do not have enough players able to play in those positions,” the Spaniard told reporters on Friday.

“Beyond those positions, I think we have to be open-minded in the market and look at situations that can improve our team.

“It is not about signing a player because we need someone in a particular position. No. It is about improving the squad. We have very good players already here, so to improve, you need a specific level of player.”

Salah’s departure is a big loss for Liverpool, even with his poor form last season.

Ibrahima Konate and Andrew Robertson have also left for Real Madrid and Tottenham respectively.

Iraola is working on rebuilding a squad that finished fifth in the Premier League last season, just a year after winning the title.

“We lost a lot in terms of experience, high-level players who have performed so well for so many years here but I think it is also a natural thing in clubs,” he said.

“I think we have a lot of young players willing to take those minutes and ready to take those leadership roles. Overall, I am very happy with the attitude of the players in the pre-season.”

Iraola gained praise for leading Bournemouth to European qualification last season with his smart tactics and high-energy play.

He now faces the job of pushing for the title while bringing back the exciting style lost during Slot’s tough second season.

Bringing in his preferred targets before the transfer window closes on September 1 would help Iraola settle into life in Merseyside.

“You understand how the competition works, that the market is open when you start the season,” he said.

“We have to adapt as coaches to this situation because there is a lot of uncertainty. Not just at Liverpool, but everywhere, because the market is open. But we have to adapt.

“Honestly, I don’t spend too much time thinking about these things. I know that you will spend a lot of time asking me about the market and this, but I am focused on the game against Newcastle. That is massive for me.

“You have seen the very good players that we have right now in the building, so we can be competitive from the beginning.